For my original project proposal, I was planning on designing an ecological education lesson plan for elementary-age children. I have decided to go in another direction because I think that my original project plan would have been difficult to complete in the given amount of time. I’m currently enrolled in two classes about farming; one which discusses the politics of the world food system, and another centered on the science and community potential of organic farming in urban areas. These classes have already opened my eyes to how little people know about where the food they eat comes from as well as the ecological, social and personal health costs associated with American eating habits. I hope to design a project that will raise awareness about the importance of “knowing your food.” I’m considering going to a few local farmer’s markets and asking people to take a quick survey about why they choose to buy food at farmer’s markets rather than grocery stores. I would like to do something similar at some grocery stores, but I’m not exactly sure any stores would let me do that, so I’ll be looking into it. I’m hoping to get an interview with a local farmer, however I don’t yet have anyone in mind. After I collect my survey results, I could make pamphlets to distribute outside grocery stores and farmers markets. I was also thinking of possibly taking a “guerilla” approach by wheat pasting signs and posters encouraging people to “know their food.”
-Mollie
Over and Out
15 years ago
3 comments:
I really have to comment on this! This is exactly what my boyfriend is focusing on for his master's project, so I'm really excited that you're tackling it too. I would recommend spending some time looking at how "what we eat" is being addressed at home or in school. If you go to a farmer's market, chances are you are going to be talking to the people who DO know where food comes from (it's the whole preaching to the choir thing), but it's the folks who are shoving junk food down their throats 24/7, willingly or not, that are clueless. Being invited into a school kitchen Jamie Oliver style may not be a possibility, but I would suggest looking at the foods market towards kids and compare that to their real nutritional value. Spend an hour watching Saturday morning cartoons - the message is there, but are the nutrients? If you can get parent permission, ask kids at a playground if they can identify different fruits and veggies - it'll help give you a sense of how well they know their foods. If you want more ideas, I'd be happy to talk to you in person!
This sounds really interesting! I went to the UW sustainibility fair today and talked to an organization that is interested in local, sustainable farming and how to inform the community how to do these things at home. They coordinate work parties, farm tours, and many other events outside campus to raise awareness and sustainable eating/farming. They are a student organization here on campus called Green Development & Sustainable Practices. Check it out!
Thanks so much to both of you for the feedback! I really like the idea of asking children to identify fruits and veggies. My mom is an elementary school teacher, so I think I'm going to ask her if she'll poll her class for me. Kendyl, we should definitely talk in person, I could use some more of your good ideas!
I'm also interested in checking out the Green development & Sustainable Practices organization, it sounds like a great resource.
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